A dedicated jetty for Lakshadweep, along with allied cargo and cruise terminal infrastructure, is set to be developed at Old Mangalore Port at an estimated cost of Rs 650 million under the Sagarmala Scheme, according to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

The project has already secured Coastal Regulation Zone clearance, while the environmental clearance certificate is pending approval. Once operational, the jetty will feature a 303.6-metre berth for cargo handling and a 76-metre berth for passenger services. The waterfront area will include about 9,800 square metres for cargo operations and 6,000 square metres for the passenger terminal.

The scope of work includes construction of a wharf for vessels and cargo at a cost of around Rs 386.14 million. A passenger cruise lounge building will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 53.61 million, while a godown with a capacity of 1,000 tonnes will be built at a cost of Rs 12.73 million. Dredging to a depth of seven metres is planned at a cost of about Rs 28.82 million.

Additional facilities will include toilets, landscaped gardens, lift access for the cruise lounge, drinking water arrangements, X-ray baggage inspection systems, hand-held metal detectors, signage, and fire-fighting equipment. The passenger cruise terminal will house lounges, restaurants, toilets, security check-in areas, office spaces and retail outlets.

Officials said that once all statutory approvals are received, the Karnataka government and the Union Territory of Lakshadweep will sign a formal agreement to take the project forward.